Warning after jewellery theft by cold caller

David Sedgwick

Residents are being warned to be on their guard from cold callers who are stealing items.

Police received a report of one caller who visited an address in Monkseaton just before midday on Tuesday, April 28.

It’s a timely reminder for residents to be vigilant, always be wary of cold callers who turn up unannounced

Detective Inspector David Swinburne

The caller asked the resident if they wanted to sell any jewellery.

The 71-year-old resident allowed the man into the address, but it was only once he had left that the resident realised jewellery had gone missing.

A 68-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of burglary dwelling and has since been released without charge.

Detective Inspector David Swinburne said: “It’s a timely reminder for residents to be vigilant, always be wary of cold callers who turn up unannounced either offering to buy or sell anything on your doorstep.

“Ask for identification, if the person at the door is unable to provide identification, then for your own security and peace of mind do not let them into your home.

“People should also look out for elderly relatives and neighbours and report any suspicious people or vehicles that they see in their community to police. If in doubt contact the police.”